Running the ball well is something that the Iowa Hawkeyes have long prided themselves on. Block well up front and hand it off to a strong running back to wear down defenses.
Luckily, Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson is not only strong but brings speed as well to provide the full package. The sophomore running back is looking to expand on a freshman season that saw him prove to be a catalyst for Iowa’s ground game. His expectations and talent have landed him on the Doak Walker Award Watch List ahead of the 2023 college football season.
Kaleb ➡️ @DoakWalkerAward Watch List@Kj_Superman2 x #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/GxkSRctetL
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) August 9, 2023
The Doak Walker Award is handed out each year to the most outstanding running back in college football. Some of the past winners are highly-touted running backs. Last year saw Bijan Robinson of the Texas Longhorns and recent first-round NFL draft pick take home the award. Featured alongside him as finalists included two Big Ten running backs, Illinois’ Chase Brown and Michigan’s Blake Corum.
Kaleb Johnson was outstanding for Iowa in his freshman year as he set the Iowa freshman rushing record with 779 yards. Johnson averaged 5.16 yards per carry and found the endzone six times. He played a minor role in the passing game with four receptions for just 27 yards, although Iowa could look to capitalize on that this upcoming season.
Expect Johnson to get the bulk of the work this year as Iowa’s lead back as he works to top his already stellar freshman season.
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